2. Excel Worksheet Basics

2.1. Rows, Columns, and Cells

When working with spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or any tabular data, the basic structure is made up of rows, columns, and cells.

 Columns

  • Columns are vertical divisions in a spreadsheet.

  • Each column is labeled with letters (A, B, C, …, Z, AA, AB, …).

  • They are used to organize data by type or category.

    • Example: Column A = Names, Column B = Age, Column C = Grade.

Rows

  • Rows are horizontal divisions in a spreadsheet.

  • Each row is numbered (1, 2, 3, …).

  • A row represents a single record or entry in the table.

    • Example: Row 2 might contain all the information about a student: Name, Age, Grade.

 Cells

  • A cell is the intersection of a row and a column.

  • Cells are where you enter, store, and manipulate data.

  • Each cell has an address or reference, which is the combination of its column letter and row number.

    • Example: The cell in Column B, Row 3 is B3.